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First-Year Students Spread Their Wings in Aviation Learning Community 

A photo of the Aviation Learning Community looking at a plane.

First-Year Students Spread Their Wings in Aviation Learning Community  

As an incoming first-year student at Purdue, one can expect to feel a wide range of emotions. There’s excitement at starting a new academic journey, anticipation for what the year will bring, homesickness and even anxiety in not knowing exactly where to fit in on such a large campus.

While these feelings are all common, Purdue offers a unique opportunity where like-minded students can find their place, meet new friends and gain valuable career experiences: learning communities. For first-year students interested in aviation, Purdue’s Aviation Learning Community is a great place to spread their wings. 

“It’s good for student cohesion,” says Todd Brewer, senior lecturer in aeronautical engineering technology and learning community instructor. “Our community is all freshmen; it’s their first semester here and they are all in aviation. Most of the time it’s their first time away from home. There’s a lot of apprehension about making friends. With our community, you put this instant group of people together who have so much in common and there’s also a living component.” 

Aviation is one of approximately 80 learning communities offered by Purdue University Residences. Over 3,000 first-year students and 1,000 returning students participate in learning communities every year. Students can apply to a learning community of their choice and live with students who share their interests. 

Aviation LC in a plane simulatorThe Aviation Learning Community is designed for students with an interest in the aviation industry. Within the learning community, students can unlock tools to understand their specific learning style, are exposed to research and innovation, can participate in Purdue-centered social and cultural events, attend field trips and engage in career development. 

“We try to get a wide variety of things for them to do,” says Brian Stirm, air operations technical specialist and learning community instructor. “We provide opportunities to get involved and familiarized with the local community and we host both service events and social events. Anytime there’s something to do with aviation we get them involved!” 

Outside of the professional and academic benefits, many students have found the social aspects of the Aviation Learning Community particularly helpful. 

“I have met some of my closest friends through the learning community and often go out for dinner with them after class,” says Keegan Gregory, a member of the learning community. “I have also met my roommates for next year through the learning community. More important in my eyes, though, is the sense of community that is found when you enter the classroom. I can confidently say that I can have a friendly conversation with every person there and I believe that is something special.” 

Aviation Learning Community in a grounded test plane

The Aviation Learning Community at Purdue provides students with invaluable career development and industry exposure opportunities that set them up for long-term success in the aviation field. Through regular guest speakers from diverse sectors of aviation—such as pilots, aviation management professionals and experts in unmanned aerial systems—students are introduced to a wide range of career paths beyond flying. 

“As a part of the Aviation Learning Community, we expose students to all kinds of career options they may not have considered,” says Brewer “We bring in professionals from across the aviation industry—whether it’s flight, management, aircraft maintenance professionals (aeronautical engineering technology) or unmanned systems—to help them explore the full scope of opportunities available to them.” 

Aviation Learning Community on PlatformThe learning community emphasizes the importance of networking and offers students the chance to interact with industry leaders through career fairs, where they can build relationships that may lead to internships or job opportunities. Additionally, the program encourages students to explore alternative career options within aviation, helping them develop backup plans and broaden their professional horizons. With these hands-on opportunities, the learning community equips students with the tools to make their next giant leap with informed career decisions and navigate the aviation industry. 

The Aviation Learning Community at Purdue also offers students opportunities that go beyond traditional classroom instruction. From field trips to aviation-related sites, such as the Grissom Air Museum, to engaging in campus-wide activities like scavenger hunts, students gain a deeper understanding of both Purdue's campus and the aviation industry. These activities are designed to help students familiarize themselves with their surroundings and foster the soft skills they need to succeed both academically and professionally. The learning community additionally organizes social events like group meals, movie nights and trips to Purdue football games, creating opportunities for students to bond while staying connected to their goals for aviation. 

Hudson Lee Roller, a student in the community, says “Students should definitely join the community. It’s a class that offers an extremely manageable workload, yet provides students with many opportunities for trips and chances to meet professionals in the field.” 

The Aviation Learning Community on a Field Trip

James Forrester, another student in the community, agrees. “Personally, the learning community has provided me with great benefits both academically and socially.” 

Incoming students are encouraged to apply to a learning community of their choice. To discover the wide variety of options Purdue offers and apply, visit the learning communities website.